Packing List
Uganda’s climate is warm and equatorial, with rain possible in any month, so pack light layers and something waterproof.
- Neutral-colored clothing (khaki, olive, brown) for game drives and forest walks. Avoid bright colors, which can startle wildlife, and camouflage patterns, which are restricted for civilians in Uganda.
- Long-sleeved shirts and long trousers for gorilla and chimp trekking, protection against nettles and insects
- Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with ankle support
- Lightweight rain jacket or poncho
- Sun hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen, Insect repellent, Reusable water bottle
- Gardening gloves for gorilla trekking, useful for gripping vegetation on steep sections
- Binoculars, especially valuable for birding and distant game viewing
- Camera, spare batteries or memory cards, and a power bank (electricity is limited at some remote lodges)
- A basic personal first-aid kit, any personal medication, and antimalarial tablets prescribed by your doctor
- A small daypack for daily excursions
- Some cash in US dollars (notes dated 2013 or later are widely required) for tips and market purchases, alongside Ugandan shillings for small local spending
Visa & Entry Requirements
Most visitors to Uganda need a visa. Apply online through the official Uganda e-visa portal, visas.immigration.go.ug, before you travel.
We can guide you through the application if it’s your first time, but the final submission and payment must be made by the traveler on the official portal.
- Single-entry tourist visa: USD 50, valid for stays of up to 3 months
- Passport validity: must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date, with at least one blank page
- Yellow fever certificate: mandatory for all travelers entering Uganda
- Processing time: approvals are usually issued within 3 to 5 working days, but we recommend applying at least 2 to 3 weeks before departure
- Uganda does not issue visas on arrival for most nationalities, so apply in advance
Avoid third-party sites claiming to offer Ugandan visas, several are scams and charge well above the official fee.
Age Restrictions
- Gorilla trekking: minimum age 15, set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. This is strictly enforced and applies across all gorilla parks in the region.
- Chimpanzee tracking: minimum age 12
- General game drives and cultural excursions: suitable for travelers of all ages, though some lodges set their own minimum age for children, we’ll confirm this when booking your accommodation
- Activity-specific limits: adventure activities such as white-water rafting may carry their own age or weight restrictions, which we’ll flag for the specific operator
There’s no upper age limit for any of these activities, but gorilla trekking does require a reasonable level of fitness given the terrain.
